President Donald Trump and other high-ranking administration officials were evacuated from the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner following a shooting incident outside the venue Saturday night. The U.S. Secret Service confirmed that Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were uninjured. A Secret Service agent sustained an injury during the event, according to initial reports. Authorities have confirmed that at least six shots were fired before a suspect was apprehended.
The White House Correspondents' Dinner, attended by President Trump for the first time as commander-in-chief, was abruptly halted by a security scare. The incident, which involved gunshots outside the Washington Hilton Hotel ballroom, led to a swift evacuation of guests, including the President, Vice President JD Vance, and members of Trump's Cabinet. Law enforcement officers fired shots inside the ballroom as part of the response, sources indicated.
Read More: Gunfire at White House Dinner: Trump Evacuated Safely
President Trump stated that the shooter has been apprehended and praised the Secret Service and law enforcement for their actions. He is expected to deliver a statement from the White House briefing room shortly. The White House Correspondents' Association president, Weijia Jiang, announced from the stage that the event would be rescheduled, with Trump indicating a desire to hold it within 30 days.
The shooting occurred near the main screening area at the venue. Reports suggest the incident unfolded amidst the dinner, which had been anticipated due to the administration's often-contentious relationship with the press. Journalists, national leaders, and celebrities were in attendance.
This event marks President Trump's first appearance at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner during his presidency. His administration has frequently challenged mainstream journalism, and a coalition of journalism groups had previously signed a letter urging the Correspondents' Association to oppose efforts perceived as undermining press freedom.
President Trump is scheduled to hold a press conference from the White House. The dinner will be rescheduled, with indications it could occur within the next 30 days.
